9 March, 2021

Dear Member;

Since giving Manitoba Hydro 48-hours’ notice of IBEW 2034’s intention to engage in strike action, we have received clear support from our fellow unions.  Other unions and associations at Manitoba Hydro have informed their members that the Labour Relations Act protects them from being forced to perform or be disciplined for refusing to do IBEW’s work.  Their only responsibility towards Manitoba Hydro is to continue doing their own work as normal.

Should you be talking with your colleagues from other jurisdictions, be sure to remind them that they are protected if they refuse to do the work of IBEW members who might be on strike.  It’s important to understand that, under the Labour Relations Act of Manitoba (section 16), it is an unfair labour practice if an employer disciplines or alters the status of an employee who has refused to perform all or any of the duties or responsibilities of an employee who is lawfully on strike.

Currently, the sisters and brothers in our fellow unions are working with their managers and supervisors towards minimizing any need for crossing IBEW picket lines.  At the same time, respectful policies are being communicated to their members for addressing those situations where the crossing of picket lines might be unavoidable. 
 
Additional communication about the Labour Relations Act and the protection it guarantees will serve to strengthen the support that our fellow bargaining units have already displayed.  Remember, if other bargaining unit members are being asked to perform your work, they are being pressured by management to do so and are under considerable stress.  It will be important to proceed respectfully when encouraging them to invoke the protections of the Labour Relations Act.  We are likelier to get their support if we alleviate their stress level rather than increase it.

In solidarity,

Business Manager
IBEW Local Union 2034